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Explorit Science Center: Igniting Curiosity

Explore the wonders of science and nature at Explorit Science Center in Davis, CA, with hands-on exhibits and engaging programs for all ages, fostering curiosity and discovery.

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The Explorit Science Center in Davis, California, is a hands-on science museum dedicated to fostering curiosity and a love for learning in children and adults alike. Located in Mace Ranch Park, Explorit offers interactive exhibits, engaging programs, and a welcoming environment for families to explore the wonders of science and nature. From exploring the intricacies of the tomato to venturing into a mock international space station, Explorit provides a unique and accessible way to learn about the world around us. With its focus on hands-on activities and real-world relevance, Explorit is a valuable resource for the Davis community and beyond, inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators. Though facing financial challenges, the center remains committed to its mission of sparking curiosity and promoting science education through interactive discovery.

A brief summary to Explorit Science Center

  • Friday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-2 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Explorit website for special events and themed weekends to enhance your visit.
  • Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in Mace Ranch Park, surrounding the Science Center.
  • Visit on a Sunday to meet volunteer educators and learn more about the exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in Mace Ranch Park, Explorit Science Center is easily accessible by foot. Follow the paved paths towards the center of the park. The building is located near the covered picnic pavilion and play structure.

  • Public Transport

    Unitrans and Yolobus both serve the area near Explorit Science Center. Check the Unitrans or Yolobus website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the nearest bus stop on 5th Street, walk south towards Mace Ranch Park. The Science Center will be visible on your right. A single ride on Unitrans is $1.25. Yolobus fares vary depending on the route, but a local single ride is typically around $2.25.

  • Driving

    From Interstate 80, take the Mace Blvd exit and head north. Turn right onto 5th Street. Explorit Science Center will be on your right within Mace Ranch Park. Free parking is available in the park's parking lots adjacent to the Science Center.

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Discover more about Explorit Science Center

Explorit Science Center, nestled in the heart of Davis, California, is more than just a museum; it's a vibrant hub of scientific exploration and discovery. For over four decades, Explorit has been igniting curiosity in children and adults alike, fostering a deep appreciation for the wonders of science and nature. Located within the scenic Mace Ranch Park, the center provides a welcoming and accessible environment for families to engage in hands-on learning experiences. Originally known as the Davis Science Center, Explorit began as a mobile outreach program, bringing interactive science demonstrations to schools and community events throughout the region. Recognizing the need for a permanent home, the center evolved into a hands-on museum, offering a diverse range of exhibits and programs designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. The name "Explorit" reflects the center's core mission: to involve people in science experiences that touch our lives. Inside Explorit, visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in a world of scientific wonders. Exhibits are designed to be interactive and engaging, encouraging visitors to touch, experiment, and discover. From exploring the intricacies of the tomato in the Tomato Lab to understanding the principles of water and light in the Water Cycle exhibit, Explorit offers a unique and accessible way to learn about the world around us. One popular exhibit, "Our Wild World," showcases a variety of specimens, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the natural world. Explorit's exhibits are carefully curated to align with educational standards and promote critical thinking skills. The center's inquiry-based approach encourages visitors to ask questions, make observations, and draw their own conclusions. By using common, familiar materials, Explorit makes science relevant and accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or prior knowledge. Beyond its exhibits, Explorit offers a wide range of programs and activities designed to further engage visitors in science learning. Family Exploration programs feature guest scientists from the community, providing opportunities for visitors to interact with experts and learn about cutting-edge research. Week-long summer day camps offer children the chance to delve deeper into specific science topics, while birthday parties with hands-on science themes provide a fun and educational way to celebrate special occasions. Explorit's impact extends far beyond the walls of its museum. The center's mobile outreach programs bring interactive science experiences to schools and community sites throughout the greater Sacramento region, serving thousands of students each year. These traveling programs include classroom adventures, school-wide science assembly programs, after-school Young Scientist Series programs, and family science nights, ensuring that science education is accessible to all. Located in Mace Ranch Park, Explorit offers visitors the opportunity to extend their exploration beyond the museum walls. The park features picnic tables, a covered pavilion, a play structure, and a small amphitheater, providing ample space for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park's pollinator garden is a haven for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, offering visitors a chance to observe these fascinating creatures up close. Despite its many successes, Explorit Science Center faces ongoing financial challenges. As a non-profit organization, the center relies on donations, grants, and program fees to support its operations. In recent years, rising costs and declining donations have put a strain on Explorit's resources, forcing the center to scale back its operations and seek community support. The center has launched fundraising campaigns and is actively seeking volunteers to help ensure its long-term sustainability. Despite these challenges, Explorit remains committed to its mission of igniting curiosity and fostering a love for science in the Davis community and beyond. With its hands-on exhibits, engaging programs, and dedicated staff, Explorit continues to be a valuable resource for families, schools, and anyone who wants to explore the wonders of science and nature. A visit to Explorit is an investment in the future, inspiring the next generation of scientists, innovators, and critical thinkers.

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